Together, We Can MakeThe Dan River Region
Thrive

Active Transportation

Active transportation is any self-propelled, human-powered mode of transportation, such as walking or bicycling. Walking and bicycling are important sources of physical activity for children and adults. However, many local residents view walking and bicycling within their communities as inconvenient or unsafe due to a lack of sidewalks, crosswalks, bicycle facilities and other traffic calming measures. Improving these elements can increase physical activity and benefit local economies. The Health Collaborative is working to create connected, walkable, bike-able and physically active communities in the Dan River Region.

One of the ways to achieve this goal is through implementation of Complete Streets, the concept that streets are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities. In 2016, two nationally recognized traffic engineers led over a dozen City of Danville staff through a day-long workshop to consider a Complete Streets policy. Since the workshop, a subcommittee has drafted a Complete Street policy that meets the unique needs Danville. This policy change has the potential to give more residents access to multiple modes of transportation to key destinations within the city while at the same time promoting physical activity.